Why would/should I want to see a psychiatrist?
Anyone should consult a psychiatrist if they believe psychiatric treatment can improve their lives.
The key to deciding if you should see a psychiatrist is understanding what a psychiatrist does.
Therapist = A therapist can be a psychologist, licensed counselor, or social worker. They perform talk therapy (individually or in groups) where you can learn how to manage emotions, behaviors, and life challenges. There can be specialized therapists for certain life challenges, such as postpartum, marital, or gender struggles.
Psychiatrist = A medical doctor who can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and provide treatment for psychiatric disorders.
What can psychiatry treat?
We can develop plans to help you manage:
Emotional distress
Excessive anxiety
Difficulty coping with trauma or loss
Mood swings
Sleep difficulties
Unexplained physical symptoms
Social withdrawal
Memory problems
Substance abuse
Suicidal thoughts/self-harm
What can a psychiatrist provide that a therapist can’t?
A main distinction between a psychiatrist and a therapist is that a psychiatrist has the training and knowledge to:
Provide a mental health diagnosis.
Create personal treatment plans.
Prescribe, monitor, and adjust medications.
A therapist is unable to diagnose or prescribe medications as their training and education focus on managing emotions and interpersonal situations.
A psychiatrist requires medical training so they can use medications and other treatments to manage symptoms of mental health disorders.
If you have physical symptoms, such as anxiety attacks, insomnia, or low energy, it wouldn’t hurt to consult a psychiatrist. Every provider has a different approach and perspective; it could be helpful to get more than one opinion before committing to a treatment plan.